Landmark legislation to create the Great Koala National Park has passed NSW Parliament, delivering on a key election commitment of the Minns Labor Government and securing lasting protection for one of the state's most significant koala populations.
The passage of the legislation, combined with the Clean Energy Regulator's approval of the park's carbon project, clears the final hurdles to establishing the Great Koala National Park, which is on track to open before the end of the year.
The National Park Estate (Great Koala National Park Reservations) Bill 2026 adds 178,000 hectares of state forest and other Crown land, home to around 12,000 koalas and more than 100 other threatened species, to the national parks estate.
This precious forest will be added to existing national park reserves on the NSW Mid North Coast, creating one of the largest protected areas in NSW, spanning more than 475,000 hectares.
The creation of the Great Koala National Park continues the proud Labor conservation legacy of the Wran and Carr governments, which protected vast areas of NSW's native forests and secured their conservation for future generations.
The park will protect important environmental and cultural values while allowing visitors to continue enjoying activities including camping, canoeing and mountain-bike riding. It will also create opportunities for nature-based tourism and local businesses.
The NSW Government is supporting workers, businesses and communities affected by the transition of this land, with a comprehensive assistance package including redundancy payments, support, retraining, upskilling and other financial assistance.
Around 100 new NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) roles are being created to strengthen park operations, fire management and conservation. The Bill provides for affected Forestry Corporation of NSW employees to transition into suitable NPWS roles if they choose.
The creation of the park follows extensive consultation with industry, community and Aboriginal groups. The Minns Labor Government is incredibly grateful for their time and expertise.
The Gumbaynggirr and Dunghutti people have helped shape the Great Koala National Park and will continue to guide its management. Eight Aboriginal rangers will be employed through community-controlled organisations and some park roles will be identified for Aboriginal people.
It is also the culmination of decades of campaigning by environmental groups.
The Clean Energy Regulator's registration of the carbon project associated with the Great Koala National Park under the Improved Native Forest Management method provides a pathway for carbon revenue to support the long-term conservation and management of these forests. Carbon credits generated through the project will not be available to coal and gas projects.
Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said:
"This is a defining moment for conservation in NSW. After more than a decade of campaigning and years of detailed assessments, consultation and planning, we have cleared the final hurdles to delivering our biggest environmental commitment.
"We are protecting extraordinary forests that are home to thousands of koalas and more than 100 threatened species, while ensuring future generations can enjoy these incredible places.
"I want to acknowledge the Traditional Owners, conservation groups, local communities and everyone who has worked so hard for so many years to see these forests protected."
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:
"We know creating the Great Koala National Park means significant change for forestry workers. We have been clear from the start that affected workers and businesses will receive practical support through this transition, and that will continue.
"We have a comprehensive assistance package in place, including financial support and retraining opportunities. This legislation also gives eligible Forestry Corporation workers a pathway to move into a role with national parks if they want to take their valuable skills and local knowledge."
Minister for Small Business and the North Coast Janelle Saffin said:
"Like so many in our region, I just love our native wildlife and iconic koalas. This is a historic day for our North Coast community, who helped shape a national park that protects our environment while keeping the outdoor activities we love accessible.
"This milestone isn't just a win for conservation - it's also an economic driver. Opening the Great Koala National Park will attract visitors from around the world, creating fresh opportunities, vibrant town centres and lasting growth for our hard-working local small businesses."
